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Yashica Revives 1959 Y16 as Retro Compact Digital Camera with Xenon Flash

other · 2026-09-21

Yashica is in the process of creating a compact digital camera called the Y16, drawing inspiration from a classic model from 1959. According to Digital Camera Watch, only a development announcement and teaser images have been released so far. The Y16 is equipped with a 12-megapixel image sensor, capable of taking both photos and videos, and features a retro xenon flash. Its design maintains a flat profile similar to its predecessor, with the flash, optical viewfinder, and built-in lens situated at the front. The rear includes a motion-sensing viewfinder and a small display. The camera will come in seven colors, all featuring a vintage white body. Preorders are anticipated in October, though pricing details remain undisclosed. Yashica's priciest model is the City 300, priced at $419.

Key facts

  • Yashica is developing a compact digital camera called the Y16, inspired by and named for a 1959 classic.
  • The camera has a 12-megapixel image sensor and captures both photos and videos.
  • It includes an old-school xenon flash, unlike the LED flash of the Yashica Tank released earlier this year.
  • The Y16 is very flat, with the thinnest part serving as the front, which houses the flash, optical viewfinder front, and built-in lens.
  • The back features a viewfinder with motion-sensing capabilities and a small screen.
  • Lens and sensor size specifics are not yet known, but a relatively small lens and sensor are expected, echoing the original 16mm film camera.
  • The camera will come in seven trim colors, all with a vintage white main body.
  • Preorders are expected to open in October; pricing has not been announced, and Yashica's current most expensive camera is the $419 Yashica City 300.

Entities

Institutions

  • Yashica
  • Digital Camera Watch
  • PetaPixel

Sources